Knee Osteoarthritis
August 26, 2008 · Print This Article
Knee osteoarthritis is a progressive condition usually found to occur among older patients. Knee osteoarthritis is characterized by a gradual degeneration of the surface cartilage of the knee. This, over a period of time slowly leads to further deformity of the knee and may result in complete loss of joint function.
Though the reasons leading to knee osteoarthritis is not known, there seems to be a genetic component. Obesity, trauma and even a fracture can lead to this form of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis affects each person differently. In some people, it progresses quickly; in others, the symptoms are more serious. Scientists do not know yet what causes the disease, but there can be a combination of factors, including being overweight, the aging process, joint injury, and stresses on the joints from certain jobs and sports activities
Even though osteoarthritis does not produce many initial symptoms, morning stiffness, pain with activity and mild swellings may occur over a period of time. A dull toothache like pain, especially with weather changes is common in the intermediate stages. No single test can diagnose osteoarthritis. Most doctors use a combination of the following methods to diagnose the disease and rule out other conditions:
A combination of tests, both physical and clinical are carried out before the doctor actually determines the nature of the condition and the subsequent treatment processes for knee osteoarthritis. The patient’s general health, including his reflexes, muscle strength and joints of the patient will be examined. The ability of the patient to walk, bend, and carry out activities of daily living will also be considered.
The main objectives of the treatment are to maintain normal physical function and reduce symptoms. This can be done with anti-inflammatory medications, carefully planned exercise programs, weight control and occasional steroid injections. Injections of some of the precursors of cartilage and oral supplements such as glucosamine sulfate and chondrotin sulfate are other nonoperative therapies that have shown promise in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.
Most people with knee osteoarthritis exercise best when their pain is least severe. Start with an adequate warmup and begin exercising slowly. Resting frequently ensures a good workout. It also reduces the risk of injury. A physical therapist can evaluate how a patient’s muscles are working. This information helps the therapist develop a safe, personalized exercise program to increase strength and flexibility
